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MagyarMotorola Moto G42 smartphone review: OLED lightweight with 700 nits at a bargain price
There are a lot of devices in the smartphone mid-range that impress with their good price-performance ratio. This is exactly what makes the Motorola Moto G42 stand out. Despite its MSRP of 250 Euros (~$255), the 6.4-inch Android device has a surprisingly extensive feature set. The variant with a smaller storage capacity of 64 GB instead of 128 GB only costs a bit over 200 Euros (~$204).
The Moto G42, like its Moto G41 predecessor, has a bright AMOLED display, which isn't necessarily a given in the mid-range. The Snapdragon 680 4G works under the hood, accompanied by up to 6 GB of RAM and a maximum of 128 GB of storage. A 50 MP camera and a 5,000 mAh battery are also on board.
Possible contenders in comparison
Rating | Date | Model | Weight | Drive | Size | Resolution | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80.8 % | 07/2022 | Motorola Moto G42 SD 680, Adreno 610 | 175 g | 64 GB UFS 2.2 Flash | 6.43" | 2400x1080 | |
| 80.6 % | 04/2022 | Motorola Moto G41 Helio G85, Mali-G52 MP2 | 178 g | 128 GB eMMC Flash | 6.40" | 2400x1080 | |
| 77.7 % | 06/2022 | Oppo A76 SD 680, Adreno 610 | 189 g | 128 GB UFS 2.2 Flash | 6.56" | 1612x720 | |
| 77.6 % | 05/2022 | Realme C35 T616, Mali-G57 MP1 | 189 g | 64 GB UFS 2.2 Flash | 6.60" | 2408x1080 | |
| 74.9 % | 12/2021 | Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F Exynos 850, Mali-G52 MP1 | 205 g | 64 GB eMMC Flash | 6.50" | 1600x720 | |
| 80 % | 05/2022 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 SD 680, Adreno 610 | 179 g | 64 GB UFS 2.2 Flash | 6.43" | 2400x1080 |
Case - Light and stylish plastic chassis
The Moto G42, which is available in the color variants "Metallic Rosé" and "Atlantic Green", is appealing due to its good build quality and subtly glossy plastic surfaces. These don't only look sleek, but they also offer a slight resistance to the fingers, which makes it possible to hold the smartphone relatively securely in the hand without using the included protective case. Furthermore, the back cover isn't too susceptible to fingerprints. The IP52 certification ensures that the Moto G42 is protected against dust and splashing water.
The plastic chassis makes the Moto G42 pleasantly light. The 6.4-inch phone only weighs 175 grams. The triple camera protrudes a few millimeters further from the chassis compared to the Moto G41, which makes the smartphone wobble more easily on flat surfaces. The Moto G42 no longer has the Google Assistant button of the Moto G41. The fingerprint scanner is located in the power button.
While the Moto G41's display only occupies 83% of the front, the Moto G42's display takes up almost 86%, which is due to the display diagonal having been minimally increased from 6.4 to 6.43 inches. The screen's bezels are therefore a bit narrower, but you only really notice the difference when you put both smartphones directly next to each other. The most striking thing, however, is something else: While the punch-hole selfie camera is surrounded by a silver ring in the Moto G41, this isn't the case in the Moto G42. The manufacturer hasn't provided any information on the display's protection type.
Connectivity - Up to 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage in the Moto G42
In Central Europe, Motorola only offers the Moto G42 in one storage configuration: With 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128 GB of UFS 2.2 storage, it costs around 250 Euros (MSRP). In other regions, it's also offered with 6 GB of RAM. The Moto G42 is also available in a scaled-down version with 4/64 GB of storage in local online stores - just like our review sample. At the time of our review, the latter was available for around 200 Euros (~$204). The internal storage can be expanded via a microSD card that can have a capacity of up to 1 TB. There's also room for two SIM cards in the card slot.
A 3.5 mm audio jack and FM radio are part of the Moto G42's features, as well as stereo speakers, NFC, and Bluetooth 5.0. The USB-C port only works at USB 2.0 speeds, but it supports USB OTG and can therefore be used to connect peripherals and storage devices. Since DRM Widevine L1 is supported too, the smartphone can also streams content in HD quality.
microSD card reader
The Moto G42's card reader achieves good sequential read and write rates in the test with our Angelbird AV Pro V60 microSD reference card. The data throughput is also respectable in the copy test, although the Samsung Galaxy A12 is almost twice as fast here.
| SD Card Reader - average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F (Angelbird V60) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 (Angelbird V60) | |
| Oppo A76 (Angelbird V60) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Angelbird AV Pro V60) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 (Angelbird V60) | |
| Realme C35 (Angelbird V60) | |
Cross Platform Disk Test (CPDT)
Software - Three years of security updates and one OS upgrade guaranteed
The Moto G42 largely runs stock Android 12, which Motorola has enhanced with its Moto app. This allows users to choose from different designs, fonts, and icon shapes, as well as configure gesture controls and enable the preview display function that we know from other Motorola phones. There's no Always-On function despite the AMOLED display.
Motorola will provide the Moto G42 with Android security updates for three years. One OS update and consequently the update to Android 13 is also guaranteed. At the time of testing (mid-July), the Android security patches were at the level of May 1 and therefore no longer quite up to date.
Communication and GNSS - No 5G, but solid Wi-Fi and GPS performance
In contrast to many other modern smartphones, the Moto G42 isn't equipped with 5G connectivity. Nevertheless, buyers get a solid communication package because the Moto G42 is unlikely to have reception problems in Europe thanks to its 11 LTE frequencies.
The Motorola smartphone operates with Wi-Fi 5 speeds in local networks. Connected to our Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 reference router, the Moto G42 achieves decent transmission rates, which are also quite stable for both sending and receiving data. However, it can't beat the Moto G41, since the latter is still a bit faster.
| Networking | |
| iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
| Average of class Smartphone (34.8 - 1875, n=200, last 2 years) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
| Average of class Smartphone (40.5 - 1810, n=201, last 2 years) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| iperf3 transmit AX12 | |
| Average of class Smartphone (99.2 - 864, n=8, last 2 years) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| iperf3 receive AX12 | |
| Average of class Smartphone (101 - 836, n=9, last 2 years) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
The Moto G42 uses the GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite navigation services to determine its position. It's able to determine its location with an accuracy of up to 4 meters indoors, and this increases to 3 meters outdoors.
Our field test shows that the smartphone lacks a bit of precision at times. On a bike ride, where the Garmin Venu2 was taken along for direct comparison, the Moto G42 was frequently off track, especially in urban areas. However, the positioning is almost as accurate as with the reference device in areas that are less densely populated. However, the GPS accuracy is sufficient for everyday use.
Telephone and call quality - Real dual SIM
The Moto G42 delivers a good call quality during phone calls. Clarity remains high when the speaker and hands-free mode are used. However, our voice occasionally sounded a bit muffled to the person on the other end of the line in the test.
Unlike the Moto G41, the Moto G42 offers true dual-SIM functionality because two SIM cards can be inserted into the card slot in addition to a microSD card. VoWiFi and VoLTE are also supported. Motorola makes the radiation values of its smartphone accessible via the phone app when you enter *#07# into the number field. You can then see that the Moto G42 is among the smartphones that have rather low radiation levels with a head SAR of 0.58 W/kg and a body SAR of 1.12 W/kg.
Cameras - 50 MP triple-camera setup
The Moto G42's selfie camera has a resolution of 16 MP, and it can record videos in Full HD at 30 frames per second. You shouldn't expect too much from the picture quality. However, the camera manages decent selfies, and it blurs the background reliably in Portrait mode. However, it's quickly overcome by low-light conditions.
The back cover of the Moto G42 features a 50 MP main camera (f/1.8) with autofocus, an 8 MP ultra wide-angle camera (f/2.2), and a 2 MP macro camera. The latter is more of a nice addition than something actually useful, but it's not at all bad at its job given its limited capabilities. The ultra wide-angle camera even offers an above-average image quality for this price range, which can capture a surprisingly large amount of details. Although picture edges quickly become noisy and blurry, the overall result is definitely respectable.
Photos taken with the 50 MP main camera in daylight are also compelling. Colors look realistic, the dynamic range is good, and the image sharpness is appropriate as well. Low-light pictures aren't the main camera's strength, but it's possible to extract even more details from the subjects with the optional Night Mode.
Both the main and ultra wide-angle cameras as well as the selfie camera can record videos in Full HD at a maximum of 30 frames per second. Switching between the lenses isn't possible while filming.
Image Comparison
Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.
Daylight photo 1Daylight photo 2Ultra-wide angleLow-light photo
We found out in the test lab that the main camera can capture colors quite accurately in optimal lighting conditions, but it deviates more significantly from the ideal line when it comes to darker shades of green and blue. Even under 1 lux of residual light, you can still identify the test chart almost completely, but only in a very blurry way.
Accessories and warranty - Charging with a 20-watt power adapter
The Motorola Moto G42 is delivered with a 20-watt power adapter, a USB cable (Type-A to C), a SIM tool, a transparent protective case, a quick-start guide, and a booklet with safety instructions. You can get accessories like headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and screen protectors in Motorola's online store.
The Motorola Moto G42 is backed by a 24-month warranty in the EU region. In addition, the warranty can be extended to three years with the optional Moto Care insurance.
Input devices and handling - Fingerprint scanner integrated into power button
The Moto G42 implements inputs on the 60 Hz 6.4-inch display very quickly and precisely. Although the Snapdragon 680 4G doesn't make a racehorse out of the Moto G42, it delivers enough power for everyday tasks and the odd occasional game. During use, however, it becomes apparent that the smartphone doesn't have that many performance resources. For example, there can be short lags when switching between several opened apps or right after startup.
The power button on the right side of the case also houses the fingerprint sensor, which unlocks the smartphone quickly and reliably. The second, less secure biometric authentication method is 2D Face Unlock. Provided there's enough ambient light and/or a sufficiently bright display, facial recognition achieves a speed and accuracy that are comparable with the fingerprint sensor.
Display - Brighter AMOLED display with 700 cd/m²
The Motorola Moto G42 is equipped with an AMOLED panel with 2,400x1,080 pixels (Full HD+). In relation to the display diagonal of 6.43 inches, this corresponds to a pixel density of 409 PPI, which guarantees a sharp image. Unlike mid-range rivals like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11, which has a 90 Hz OLED display, the Moto G42 is limited to a refresh rate of 60 Hz.
On a pure white background, the Moto G42's AMOLED panel emits an average of 699 cd/m². If the measurement is repeated on a smaller area of the screen (APL18), the brightness increases up to 745 cd/m², which is a very good result for a mid-range smartphone. Another positive aspect is the display's very uniform brightness distribution.
In the lowest brightness setting, the AMOLED panel flickers at a frequency of around 240 Hz, which might bother sensitive users. However, at higher display brightness settings starting at about 25%, the flickering is already almost gone. Therefore, the fact that there's no DC dimming option in the display settings isn't a problem.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Brightness Distribution: 95 %
Center on Battery: 691 cd/m²
Contrast: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 1.02 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5.1
ΔE Greyscale 1 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
98.6% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.205
| Motorola Moto G42 AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.43 | Motorola Moto G41 AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.40 | Oppo A76 IPS, 1612x720, 6.56 | Realme C35 IPS, 2408x1080, 6.60 | Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F IPS LCD, 1600x720, 6.50 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 OLED, 2400x1080, 6.43 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | -53% | -55% | -212% | -214% | -11% | |
| Brightness middle | 691 | 713 3% | 569 -18% | 585 -15% | 446 -35% | 702 2% |
| Brightness | 699 | 712 2% | 562 -20% | 558 -20% | 423 -39% | 701 0% |
| Brightness Distribution | 95 | 91 -4% | 90 -5% | 89 -6% | 88 -7% | 98 3% |
| Black Level * | 0.5 | 0.6 | 0.29 | |||
| Colorchecker dE 2000 * | 1.02 | 1.1 -8% | 2.16 -112% | 4.4 -331% | 4.94 -384% | 1 2% |
| Colorchecker dE 2000 max. * | 1.73 | 2.39 -38% | 3.37 -95% | 8.77 -407% | 8.81 -409% | 2.3 -33% |
| Greyscale dE 2000 * | 1 | 3.7 -270% | 1.8 -80% | 5.9 -490% | 5.1 -410% | 1.4 -40% |
| Gamma | 2.205 100% | 2.264 97% | 2.177 101% | 2.228 99% | 2.145 103% | 2.2 100% |
| CCT | 6621 98% | 7373 88% | 6784 96% | 8001 81% | 7890 82% | 6520 100% |
| Contrast | 1138 | 975 | 1538 |
* ... smaller is better
Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)
| Screen flickering / PWM detected | 239.7 Hz |  | |
The display backlight flickers at 239.7 Hz (Likely utilizing PWM) . The frequency of 239.7 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below. In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18694 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured. | |||
Series of measurements taken with a fixed zoom level and different brightness settings
In addition to the "Saturated" preset mode, the "Natural" picture mode can be selected in the display settings. Its name is also the objective, because this mode makes the display's color and grayscale reproduction absolutely ideal with DeltaE values of around 1 in each case. Parameters like gamma, color temperature, and RGB balance are also exemplary. The AMOLED panel can cover 98.6% of the sRGB color space, as well as 73.9% and 73.6% of the larger AdobeRGB and DCI-P3 color spaces, respectively.
Display Response Times
| ↔ Response Time Black to White | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2.6 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined | ↗ 1.3 ms rise |  |
| ↘ 1.3 ms fall | ||
| The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming. In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 7 % of all devices are better. This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (21.8 ms). | ||
| ↔ Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey | ||
| 3.7 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined | ↗ 2.1 ms rise |  |
| ↘ 1.6 ms fall | ||
| The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming. In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 8 % of all devices are better. This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (34.3 ms). | ||
The Moto G42 is well equipped for outdoor use. Content can be read without problems even from flat viewing angles if direct sunlight is avoided.
Performance - Moto G42 with the Snapdragon 680 4G
The Moto G42 is powered by the mid-range Snapdragon 680 4G SoC, which is supported by 4 GB of RAM. The Adreno 610 is used as the graphics unit. This hardware foundation helps the smartphone achieve a solid system performance. There are minor delays during use at times, but they aren't actually annoying overall.
The Moto G42 holds its ground well against the competition in the benchmarks, and it ranks in the midfield overall. However, it can hardly set itself apart from its predecessor, the Moto G41, and its MediaTek Helio G85 SoC.
| Geekbench 5.5 | |
| Single-Core | |
| Average of class Smartphone (119 - 2138, n=219, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (323 - 384, n=12) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Multi-Core | |
| Average of class Smartphone (473 - 5538, n=219, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (1287 - 1738, n=12) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Antutu v9 - Total Score | |
| Average of class Smartphone (102602 - 1478071, n=158, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (201897 - 274001, n=5) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| PCMark for Android - Work 3.0 | |
| Average of class Smartphone (4761 - 19783, n=212, last 2 years) | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (4535 - 8730, n=12) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| CrossMark - Overall | |
| Average of class Smartphone (200 - 1408, n=156, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (325 - 413, n=6) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| AImark - Score v2.x | |
| Average of class Smartphone (1043 - 286905, n=77, last 2 years) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (4320 - 4995, n=5) | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7 | |
| T-Rex Onscreen | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Realme C35 | |
| 1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| GFXBench 3.0 | |
| on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| 1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Realme C35 | |
| GFXBench 3.1 | |
| on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| 1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| GFXBench | |
| on screen Car Chase Onscreen | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| 1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Realme C35 | |
| on screen Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| 2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Realme C35 | |
| on screen Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Realme C35 | |
| 1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Oppo A76 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Jetstream 2 - Total Score | |
| Average of class Smartphone (21.2 - 351, n=165, last 2 years) | |
| Realme C35 (Chrome 101) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Chrome 101) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 (Chrome 103.0.5060.71) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (35.7 - 46.8, n=6) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 (Chrome 99) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F (Chrome96) | |
| Speedometer 2.0 - Result | |
| Average of class Smartphone (14.9 - 445, n=153, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Chrome 101) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (32.7 - 40.5, n=6) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 (Chrome 103.0.5060.71) | |
| Realme C35 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 (Chrome 99) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F (Chrome96) | |
| WebXPRT 3 - --- | |
| Average of class Smartphone (37 - 304, n=130, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Chrome 101) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (58 - 70, n=5) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 (Chrome 103.0.5060.71) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 (Chrome 99) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F (Chrome96) | |
| Octane V2 - Total Score | |
| Average of class Smartphone (4633 - 89112, n=197, last 2 years) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Chrome 101) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 (Chrome 99) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 (Chrome 103.0.5060.71) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6358 - 13831, n=9) | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F (Chrome96) | |
| Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total Score | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F (Chrome96) | |
| Motorola Moto G41 (Chrome 99) | |
| Motorola Moto G42 (Chrome 103.0.5060.71) | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Chrome 101) | |
| Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (2874 - 3461, n=5) | |
| Average of class Smartphone (388 - 9999, n=163, last 2 years) | |
* ... smaller is better
When it comes to storage performance, the Moto G42 with its UFS 2.2 storage is clearly superior to the Moto G41 and its slow eMMC storage. Moreover, the smartphone delivers an absolutely satisfactory read and write performance for its price range.
| Motorola Moto G42 | Motorola Moto G41 | Oppo A76 | Realme C35 | Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Average 64 GB UFS 2.2 Flash | Average of class Smartphone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AndroBench 3-5 | -55% | 27% | -2% | -65% | 14% | 2% | 68% | |
| Sequential Read 256KB | 843.09 | 298.5 -65% | 980.7 16% | 907.1 8% | 302.3 -64% | 895.34 6% | 766 ? -9% | 1284 ? 52% |
| Sequential Write 256KB | 436.32 | 172.3 -61% | 711.7 63% | 271.1 -38% | 74.5 -83% | 519.23 19% | 395 ? -9% | 902 ? 107% |
| Random Read 4KB | 122.08 | 86.9 -29% | 174.7 43% | 137.8 13% | 77.8 -36% | 172.95 42% | 154.7 ? 27% | 225 ? 84% |
| Random Write 4KB | 186.23 | 64.4 -65% | 162.7 -13% | 206.4 11% | 47.21 -75% | 163.29 -12% | 180.4 ? -3% | 239 ? 28% |
Games - Run smoothly with limitations
The Snapdragon 680 4G running in the Moto G42 and its Adreno 610 graphics unit only have limited performance reserves for future gaming generations.
However, modern games, including complex titles like PUBG Mobile, don't pose too much of a challenge for the smartphone as long as the graphics details aren't set too high. In PUBG Mobile, you can't select a higher graphics setting than "Balanced" anyway. Therefore, the shooter remains playable at an almost constant 25 FPS. The Moto G42 can almost make full use of its 60 Hz display in the graphically simpler Armajet, where it even achieves an average of 59 FPS.
We determine the gaming frame rates with our Gamebench test tool.
Emissions - Cool at all times during use
Temperature
The Moto G42 hardly heats up during use, so it never feels uncomfortably warm. We measure a maximum of 39.6 °C (~103 °F) on the surface.
The Moto G42 also has the internal SoC waste heat well in check. As the 3DMark stress tests show, it can almost always fully utilize its performance even under continuous load. If performance losses occur, they're so minimal that they aren't noticeable.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 39.6 °C / 103 F, compared to the average of 35 °C / 95 F, ranging from 21.9 to 56 °C for the class Smartphone.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 39.7 °C / 103 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.6 °C / 82 F, compared to the device average of 32.7 °C / 91 F.
3DMark Wild Life Stress Test
| 3DMark | |
| Wild Life Stress Test Stability | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Wild Life Extreme Stress Test | |
| Motorola Moto G41 | |
| Motorola Moto G42 | |
| Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F | |
Speakers
The Moto G42 is equipped with stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support that reach a maximum volume of 81.1 dB(A), and they don't distort even when the volume is turned up to the maximum. Mids and highs are conveyed in a very balanced way by the dual-speaker system, while bass tones are absent.
The Moto G42 offers a 3.5 mm audio jack for wired headsets and speakers. Bluetooth 5.0 is used for wireless connectivity.
Motorola Moto G42 audio analysis
(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (81.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 23.4% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.1% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 1.5% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (3.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (17.7% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 9% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 85% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 39%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 29% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 63% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 26%, worst was 134%
Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F audio analysis
(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (86.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 28.9% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5.4% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (6.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 6.4% higher than median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (25.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 54% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 38% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 39%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 72% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 22% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 26%, worst was 134%
Battery life - One of the highlights of the Moto G42
Energy consumption
The Moto G42's power consumption is very restrained with 1.5 watts in idle usage and an average of 2.6 watts under load. The included power adapter can also be described as restrained. It supplies 20 watts, but it can't provide it fully because the Moto G42 can only be charged with a maximum of 18 watts. It takes 2:03 hours to bring the empty battery back to 100% in the test. The smartphone doesn't support wireless charging.
| Off / Standby |   0.1 / 0.2 Watt |
| Idle |  1 / 1.5 / 2 Watt |
| Load |
2.6 / 4.5 Watt |
    
| |
| Motorola Moto G42 5000 mAh | Motorola Moto G41 5000 mAh | Realme C35 5000 mAh | Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F 5000 mAh | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 5000 mAh | Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G | Average of class Smartphone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | -10% | 9% | -28% | -6% | -22% | -25% | |
| Idle Minimum * | 1 | 0.9 10% | 0.8 20% | 1.4 -40% | 1.06 -6% | 1.092 ? -9% | 0.89 ? 11% |
| Idle Average * | 1.5 | 1.1 27% | 1.1 27% | 1.9 -27% | 1.93 -29% | 1.666 ? -11% | 1.464 ? 2% |
| Idle Maximum * | 2 | 1.6 20% | 1.4 30% | 2.1 -5% | 1.96 2% | 2.07 ? -4% | 1.669 ? 17% |
| Load Average * | 2.6 | 4.3 -65% | 3.1 -19% | 3.8 -46% | 2.87 -10% | 3.85 ? -48% | 4.84 ? -86% |
| Load Maximum * | 4.5 | 6.5 -44% | 5.1 -13% | 5.6 -24% | 3.85 14% | 6.25 ? -39% | 7.71 ? -71% |
* ... smaller is better
Energy consumption: Geekbench (150 cd/m²)
Energy consumption: GFXBench (150 cd/m²)
Battery life
The Moto G42 trumps when it comes to battery life. The Snapdragon 680 4G isn't the fastest SoC, but it gives our review unit quite a bit of endurance due to its frugal operation.
The Moto G42's 5,000 mAh battery dies after almost 16 hours of simulated web browsing, and it even lasts almost 20 hours when playing a video. Looking at the competition, however, shows that such superb runtimes have almost become standard in the mid-range.
| Motorola Moto G42 5000 mAh | Motorola Moto G41 5000 mAh | Oppo A76 5000 mAh | Realme C35 5000 mAh | Samsung Galaxy A12 Exynos SM-A127F 5000 mAh | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 5000 mAh | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Runtime | -3% | 5% | 1% | -3% | -6% | |
| Reader / Idle | 2223 | 1849 -17% | 2094 -6% | 2098 -6% | ||
| H.264 | 1185 | 1298 10% | 1078 -9% | 1076 -9% | ||
| WiFi v1.3 | 949 | 905 -5% | 993 5% | 958 1% | 879 -7% | 842 -11% |
| Load | 406 | 411 1% | 455 12% | 409 1% |
Pros
Cons
Verdict on the Motorola Moto G42
The Motorola Moto G42 is a good mid-range smartphone that offers a lot of value for money. There are two features in particular that make it stand out: The long battery life, and the bright AMOLED display. Not only is the latter's brightness of around 700 cd/m² above average by mid-range standards, but it also impresses with good image quality and uniform illumination. However, there's no more than a 60 Hz refresh rate.
Budget-conscious buyers looking for an affordable and well-equipped smartphone should take a closer look at the Motorola Moto G42.
The Moto G42 isn't a performance overachiever due to its Snapdragon 680 4G, but it offers a satisfactory performance for everyday use. The Moto G42 also scores plus points with its 50 MP camera that takes good pictures in daylight. Stereo speakers, true dual-SIM functionality, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and guaranteed security patch updates for three years round out the good features.
An alternative to the Motorola Moto G42 is the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11, which offers an AMOLED display that is almost as bright, but with 90 Hz.
Price and availability
At the time of writing, you can find the Moto G42 in the 4/64GB configuration on Amazon for around $255.
Motorola Moto G42
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08/30/2022 v7
Manuel Masiero
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